Chicago Air and Water Show 2001 Thunderbird Solo Display

The bad weather on Saturday made me leave early, so I didn't see the Thunderbirds display that day.

photo #1

Sunday was better, but there was still a lot of moisture in the air, which made it difficult to take clear photographs.

photo #2

However, with the aircraft passing virtually overhead, it was hard not to get some good photos...

photo #3  solo Thunderbird banking hard right with afterburner operating

It's a matter of considerable pride for the ground crews to keep the aircraft as clean and shiny as possible.  On this plane's left wing you can even see the reflections of the white trim paint which is on the lower surfaces.

photo #4  solo Thunderbird passing virtually overhead while flying straight and level
photo #5  solo Thunderbird flying straight and level
photo #6  solo Thunderbird flying straight and level
photo #7  flying upside down
photo #8  climbing while inverted

One benefit of the moisture laden air was the vapor trails left by the aircraft as they move at high speed, creating a partial vacuum which condenses the water out of the air.

photo #9
photo #10
photo #11  solo Thunderbird banking hard with wing vapor and wingtip vortices